WHAT IS CHEERLEADING?
Empire Athletics is a cheerleading gym in Rangiora, North Canterbury.
Cheerleading is one of the world's fastest growing sports, recently being officially recognized as a sport on 31 May 2013 Annual General Assembly of Sports Accord in St Petersburg.
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It is a high energy, well rounded activity. Involving acrobatic stunts, jumps, gymnastic tumbling, and even dance - offering a little bit of everything that other activities solely focus on.
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It is a great way to increase fitness, create lifelong friendships, and even helps to increase self-esteem.
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No matter your experience, age, body shape, or fitness level - Empire Athletics has a position on the team for you!
COMPETITIVE CHEERLEADING
There are no pom poms or cheering involved in Competitive Cheerleading. Teams of 8-36 athletes train to perform a fast paced 2.5 minute routine at competitions. These intricately choreographed routines showcase the best of the team's stunt, jump, tumbling and dance abilities.
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Learning these skills under the guidance of a qualified coach is a great way to build fitness, in addition to gaining confidence, self-discipline, and lifelong friends.
Participation on a competitive team requires commitment and dedication. Athletes work in 'stunt groups' made of 4 athletes. If one is away, it makes it a challenge to train effectively.
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Athletes travel to competitions - most of which are held in the North Island.
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It is never too late to get involved in cheerleading! If dance, gymnastics or acrobatics has been something you have always wanted to do, don't feel like you are 'too old' - YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD!
RECREATIONAL CHEERLEADING
If you have always wanted to give cheerleading a go but are not prepared for the full commitment that a competitive team requires - our recreational cheerleading team is for you.
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Recreational cheerleading is a great way to keep fit and can be a great pathway into a competitive team should an athlete want to progress further.
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Under the guidance of our qualified staff, athletes will learn stunting and tumbling skills.
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Recreational teams do not compete at competitions, but they do perform at our end of year showcase. There is also no requirement to purchase uniforms for recreational teams.